Japan head coach Hajime Moriyasu says he expects injured winger Kaoru Mitoma to be available for Asian Cup duty later this month in Qatar.
Moriyasu announced his 26-man squad for the Asian championship on Monday and included the injured Brighton star.
Mitoma hurt his ankle in Brighton’s 1-1 draw with Crystal Palace on December 21st.
He doesn’t believe Mitoma will be ready for Japan’s opening Group D match against Vietnam on January 14th, but said the 26-year-old’s recovery is “proceeding as expected” and should be able to return later in the tournament.
Moriyasu said he is wary of Vietnam, who are led by former Japan head coach Philippe Troussier.
“Troussier is a coach who knows Japanese football very well,” Moriyasu said, “So I think they’re a very difficult and tough opponent.”
The Japan boss also offered his concern for those affected by the earthquake that struck the country’s west coast on Monday.
“I pray for the safety of everyone in the affected areas and hope that the damage and devastation will be kept to the minimum.”
JP2021.COM